Encore Center for Performing Arts Announces
“An Intimate Evening with Miguel Cervantes”
Broadway star Miguel Cervantes to headline a special ECPA event marking major step in ECPA’s vision to bring world-class cultural experiences to Elmhurst.
ELMHURST, IL – April 30, 2025 – Encore Center for Performing Arts (ECPA), a leading force for live theater, music, and cultural events in Elmhurst, is thrilled to announce an unforgettable evening with Broadway star Miguel Cervantes, who will take the stage on Thursday, June 12, at the historic Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel on the campus of Elmhurst University. Cervantes, known as “Chicago’s Hamilton,” portrayed the iconic role from 2016 to 2020 in Chicago and continued on Broadway until early 2024, totaling over 2,000 performances. No one has been Hamilton longer except Alexander himself.
“Our vision has always been to create a space where extraordinary performances are part of everyday life in Elmhurst. Hosting Miguel Cervantes is a major step forward and reflects the incredible momentum building around ECPA. It’s the kind of cultural experience we’re proud to bring to our community, ” said Jeff Budgell, Board Chairman of ECPA.
Beyond the excitement of the evening, events like this illustrate the broader impact of the arts within communities. Nearly 90 percent of Americans believe arts and culture improve quality of life, and two in three say the arts help unify people across age, race, and background.
“Hamilton broke barriers in musical theater, bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together through its incredible story,” said Becky Marianetti, Choir and Theater Director at York High School. “This event is a special chance to connect with a cultural moment that captivated and united so many.”
That same spirit of connection and vibrancy extends into the local economy. Nationally, the nonprofit arts sector generates $166.3 billion in economic activity and supports 4.6 million jobs. Arts audiences in the region contribute an average of $65 per person, per event, to nearby restaurants, shops, and hotels.
“Encore Center for Performing Arts will bring world-class cultural experiences to Elmhurst that will enhance and enrich our community, and support local business,” said Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin. “We are grateful to ECPA for its vision and its commitment to growing the arts in Elmhurst. Hosting Miguel Cervantes reflects the momentum and promise the arts bring to the City’s future.”
As ECPA moves closer to establishing a permanent performing arts venue in downtown Elmhurst, events like this one demonstrate the vision’s power to bring people together, create opportunity, and strengthen the city.
Tickets for this exclusive event are expected to sell out quickly. Tickets are on sale now at ECPA-Elmhurst.org under the EVENTS tab. Premium Experience Group Packages that include a meet & photo, Reserved Group Seating, Adult, and Child tickets are available now.
About the Encore Center for Performing Arts:
Encore Center for Performing Arts (ECPA) is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to offering performances in theater, music, dance, and comedy, where artists and patrons share their love of the performing arts. ECPA has the ultimate goal of creating a vibrant theater complex in the western suburbs and beyond–a long-term investment for the community with strong ties to local businesses and residents. To learn more about sponsorship, volunteering, or donation opportunities, contact ECPAElmhurst@gmail.com.
Contact: Shawna Roubitchek, 224-283-7889